Backline boost for England ahead of Italy clash

SQUAD UPDATE: Henry Slade has recovered from injury in time to be named in England's 36-man squad for Saturday's Six Nations clash against Italy.

Exeter centre Slade missed England's defeat to Scotland in their Six Nations opener last Saturday after suffering a hip problem.

London Irish wing Henry Arundell also returns from injury to feature in Steve Borthwick's squad for the Twickenham meeting with Italy.

Courtney Lawes, recovering from a calf injury, will be at England's training camp as the Northampton star continues his rehabilitation work.

England lost 23-29 to Scotland in their first match since Borthwick replaced the sacked Eddie Jones as head coach.

Italy opened their Six Nations campaign with a 29-24 defeat against defending champions France in Rome on Sunday.

England squad:

Forwards: Ollie Chessum, Dan Cole, Ben Curry, Alex Dombrandt, Tom Dunn, Ben Earl, Ellis Genge, Jamie George, Joe Heyes, Jonny Hill, Nick Isiekwe, Maro Itoje, Lewis Ludlam, David Ribbans, Bevan Rodd, Sam Simmonds, Kyle Sinckler, Mako Vunipola, Jack Walker, Jack Willis.

Backs: Henry Arundell, Owen Farrell, Tommy Freeman, Ollie Hassell-Collins, Ollie Lawrence, Max Malins, Joe Marchant, Alex Mitchell, Henry Slade, Fin Smith, Marcus Smith, Freddie Steward, Manu Tuilagi, Jack van Poortvliet, Anthony Watson, Ben Youngs.